A Letter of Encouragement

Dear You,

Life can be hard sometimes. We have these hopes and dreams painted in our heads but the universe is throwing out other plans, messing up the picture we painted. It can get discouraging. Sometimes we believe that it is easier to throw in the towel rather than to finish the picture. But it's not true. Don't you want to see the completed picture? Won't you feel better knowing you finished and gave it all that you have and some more rather than saying you quit? Once it's finished you'll have a story to go along with it.

I believe that the rough patches we go through are stories for later. It's an appreciation we develop when we're retelling them, despite how much of a burden those patches are in the moment. And let me tell you, it will be a beautiful story. A story that you will be proud to tell while living in the picture you fought so hard to paint.

So don't throw in that towel just yet! Wait until you're finished! Patience is a virtue. It takes time to craft your art. Wouldn't you be more proud to know you took your time and learned a few things in the process rather than half-assing it and it turns out to be something completely different than what you envisioned?

This is true with anything you do in life. Whether it be parenting, marriage, dating, your career, starting a business, writing a book, or even painting an actual picture, it is always better with patience.

You'll get there, I promise. But you know how you'll get there a little faster? It all starts with you. It starts with your dream, your thoughts, your mindset, your words, your actions. If they are full of negativity, then all you're doing is tarnishing your art. See the light and color in everything you do. See the good in the patches the universe is throwing at you. Don't lose sight of the bigger picture.

And let's be honest it is easier said than done, but with daily practice, yes daily, it can be done. If you need to, sulk for a little bit during the patch, then when your sulking is over, bask in what lesson the patch is teaching you.

I can't wait to see your beautiful art and I can't wait to hear the story to go along with it.